Hilton and American Express Open Doors: 20,000 Rooms Ready for L.A. Wildfire Refugees

Over a week after record-setting Santa Ana winds ignited wildfires throughout Los Angeles — including incidents like the Palisades Fire, the Sunset Fire, and the Eaton Fire — upwards of 88,000 individuals are still under evacuation mandates. There is no update on when these individuals might be permitted to return home. Hotels throughout Southern California have opened their doors, providing complimentary or reduced-rate accommodations to evacuees.

Hilton and American Express have recently declared their intention to supply 20,000 rooms in the broader Los Angeles region for those impacted by the wildfires. If you are in search of lodging, please complete an online application with 211 LA. 

Since the fires commenced, more than 40,000 acres have been scorched, 12,300 structures destroyed, and a minimum of 24 lives lost — these wildfires are now categorized as some of the most devastating in California’s history. The volunteer efforts have been significant, yet finding suitable accommodations remains a primary issue, particularly in Los Angeles, where an existing housing crisis has made securing a place to stay challenging (and costly) even in typical conditions.

“Every natural disaster impacts our people and communities deeply, and this instance is particularly burdensome given our long-standing presence in California,” stated Christopher Nassetta, Hilton’s president and CEO, in a press announcement sent to Travel + Leisure. “In moments such as these, the conviction our founder had that hospitality can serve as a force for good carries even more significance, intensifying our responsibility to those we assist.”

Hilton, American Express, and the non-profit group 211 LA have come together to offer complimentary shelter for those impacted by the fires. Airbnb is similarly collaborating with 211 LA to provide free housing; the vacation rental firm is also taking measures against price exploitation by setting limits on how much hosts are allowed to increase prices in Southern California during this period.

If you are already checked in at a hotel, be sure to retain your receipts — your insurance provider may be able to reimburse you based on your coverage terms. Should you continue to struggle with securing accommodation, consider contacting the Federal Emergency Management Agency or the Los Angeles Housing Department for resources or guidance. Furthermore, additional assistance should be forthcoming — Governor Gavin Newsom has recently issued an executive decree to hasten temporary housing solutions for wildfire evacuees, facilitate the creation of accessory dwelling units, and prolong the ban on price gouging.

If you’re enthusiastic about points and miles and wish to contribute, you can donate your points to organizations such as the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation via Pointworthy.